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Category: Africa

  • UN warns Ebola risk ‘very high’ in Eastern DR Congo amid outbreak

    UN warns Ebola risk ‘very high’ in Eastern DR Congo amid outbreak

    GENEVA, Switzerland (NPA) — The United Nations has warned that the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) now poses a “very high” national risk as health authorities intensify emergency response efforts across the conflict-ravaged region.

    According to a United Nations report released on Friday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) confirmed that at least 82 Ebola cases and seven deaths have already been recorded in the DRC, although the actual scale of the outbreak is believed to be far worse, with nearly 750 suspected cases and 177 suspected deaths reported.

    The outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, is spreading across Ituri and North Kivu provinces amid intensified armed conflict, mass displacement, and widespread mistrust fuelled by misinformation and rumours.

    The UN disclosed that one hospital in Ituri Province was recently set ablaze by angry relatives after authorities reportedly refused to release the body of a deceased family member over fears of contamination.

    In response to the growing crisis, the WHO has deployed 22 international staff members to affected areas, while UNICEF has sent emergency response teams to Bunia to support contact tracing, treatment centres, community engagement, and risk communication campaigns.

    The UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, also announced the release of up to $60 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund to support outbreak containment efforts in the DRC and neighbouring countries. WHO separately released an additional $3.9 million for emergency operations.

    The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo, MONUSCO, has airlifted nearly 30 tons of emergency supplies, including medicines, tents, and protective equipment, while also providing vehicles and logistical support to frontline responders.

    The report further confirmed that two Ebola cases linked to travel from the DRC have already been detected in Uganda, including one fatality. Two American nationals were also transferred to Europe for treatment and monitoring.

    WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned that the worsening humanitarian crisis and ongoing violence in eastern Congo continue to complicate containment efforts.

    “Across both provinces, around four million people need urgent humanitarian assistance, two million are displaced, and ten million face acute hunger,” Tedros said.

    The UN and its partners are also accelerating work on experimental vaccines and treatments targeting the Bundibugyo strain, for which no approved vaccine or therapeutic currently exists.

    Aid agencies additionally warned that misinformation and distrust among affected communities could undermine containment efforts, with some residents reportedly believing that Ebola is fabricated.

    UN Women also raised concerns that women and girls could face disproportionate risks during the outbreak due to caregiving responsibilities, frontline health work, and burial practices.

    The United Nations stressed that restoring trust within affected communities remains critical to preventing wider transmission and containing the outbreak.

    Source: United Nations (UN)

  • Ghana deploys 100 new buses to boost public transport system

    Ghana deploys 100 new buses to boost public transport system

    ACCRA, Ghana (NPA) — Ghana’s Vice President, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has commissioned 100 new buses on behalf of President John Mahama as part of efforts to revitalise the country’s public transportation system.

    The commissioning ceremony, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Metro Mass Transit Limited (MMTL), forms part of a broader government plan to deploy 300 buses nationwide to improve accessibility and reduce transportation challenges faced by commuters.

    According to a statement issued by the Ghana Presidency, the Vice President commended the management of MMTL led by Managing Director Kale Caesar, alongside partners including MAC Ghana, for supporting the initiative.

    Opoku-Agyemang stated that an efficient, reliable, and affordable transport system remains critical to Ghana’s national development and economic growth.

    She noted that the intervention is designed to improve commuter safety, affordability, convenience, and restore public confidence in mass transit services across the country.

    The Vice President also stressed the importance of proper maintenance culture and disciplined operations to ensure sustainability and value for public investment.

    She further highlighted the government’s long-term vision of expanding local participation in the manufacturing and assembly of transport components as part of efforts to strengthen Ghana’s industrial sector and create employment opportunities.

  • Peter Obi arrives South Africa for Spier Dialogue on Africa’s future

    Peter Obi arrives South Africa for Spier Dialogue on Africa’s future

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa (NPA) — Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has arrived in Cape Town, South Africa, to participate in the Spier Dialogue 2026, where he is expected to address global leaders and stakeholders on policies aimed at driving Africa’s growth and development.

    In a statement issued on Friday, Obi described the dialogue as a critical platform focused on the future of Africa and the urgent challenges confronting the continent and the wider global community.

    According to him, the event comes at a crucial period as Africa faces growing concerns around governance, democracy, economic inclusion, urbanisation, migration, and leadership, while also presenting opportunities driven by the energy and creativity of the continent’s youthful population.

    Obi said he looks forward to engaging in discussions with leaders and stakeholders from different parts of the world, noting that he would deliver an address on policies geared toward sustainable growth.

    The former Anambra State governor stressed that Africa’s future should not be defined by poverty amid abundant resources or by division instead of development.

    “It is time for us to move from consumption to production, from divisive politics to politics rooted in competence and compassion, and from empty promises to measurable progress that impacts everyday citizens,” he said.

    Obi also disclosed that he met with members of the Nigerian community in Cape Town upon his arrival, where discussions centred on recent challenges affecting African expatriates in South Africa.

    He said the meeting lasted more than two hours and focused on strengthening engagement with Nigerians living abroad.

    The former presidential candidate reiterated his commitment to advocating for what he described as “a New Nigeria and a New Africa,” driven by integrity, service, youth empowerment, education, and accountable leadership.

  • Kenya intensifies Ebola surveillance, declares nation safe amid regional outbreak

    Kenya intensifies Ebola surveillance, declares nation safe amid regional outbreak

    NAIROBI, Kenya (NPA) — The Kenyan government has intensified nationwide Ebola preparedness and surveillance measures following the outbreak of the Bundibugyo Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

    In a press statement issued on Friday, Kenya’s Ministry of Health said the outbreak had already been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization (WHO) and a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

    The ministry, however, reassured citizens and the international community that Kenya has not recorded any confirmed case of Ebola as of May 21, 2026.

    According to the statement signed by Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, three individuals with recent travel history from the Democratic Republic of Congo who visited health facilities with unrelated illnesses were isolated and tested for Ebola, with all results returning negative. Four additional contacts linked to the individuals also tested negative.

    The government noted that Kenya remains at elevated risk due to its strong regional trade, transport, and population movement links with affected countries, prompting authorities to activate an enhanced national response framework.

    As part of the measures, the Ministry of Health, through the Kenya National Public Health Institute (KNPHI), has activated the Incident Management System and Public Health Emergency Operations Centres at national and county levels.

    Rapid response teams have also been placed on standby, while coordination with county governments, the WHO, the Africa CDC, and regional partners has been intensified.

    The ministry disclosed that screening and surveillance operations have been strengthened at airports and land border crossings, with a cumulative total of 42,447 travellers screened as of May 21, including 2,965 in the last 24 hours.

    Kenya also identified 22 high-risk counties and deployed 118 rapid-response personnel, while more than 880 healthcare workers at national and county levels have undergone sensitisation on Ebola preparedness and response.

    Authorities further announced the designation of four national laboratories for Ebola testing, including the National Public Health Laboratory, KEMRI Nairobi, KEMRI Kisumu, and a mobile laboratory platform for rapid deployment where necessary.

    The government clarified that there is currently no blanket quarantine for truck drivers or travellers, noting that the country is implementing risk-based screening, monitoring, and rapid response measures in line with WHO and International Health Regulations guidelines.

    The Ministry of Health urged members of the public to remain calm but vigilant, maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids of sick persons, and rely only on verified information from official health authorities.

    Citizens were also advised to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever, severe weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain, unexplained bleeding, or bruising, particularly after travelling to affected areas in eastern and north-eastern DRC and regions bordering western Uganda.

    The government assured tourists, investors, and international travellers that Kenya remains safe and open, while urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to affected regions until the outbreak is fully contained.

    “The Ministry remains on high alert and continues to work closely with WHO, Africa CDC, regional governments, and development partners to prevent the entry and spread of Ebola Virus Disease into the country,” the statement added.

  • Africa CDC steps up Ebola response in DR Congo, Uganda as DG visits outbreak epicentre

    Africa CDC steps up Ebola response in DR Congo, Uganda as DG visits outbreak epicentre

    KAMPALA, Uganda (NPA) — The Director General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), Jean Kaseya, has visited Bunia in Ituri Province, Democratic Republic of Congo, the epicentre of the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak, as efforts intensify to contain the deadly disease and prevent further spread across the region.

    During the visit, Kaseya held meetings with the Governor of Ituri Province and development partners to discuss urgent measures aimed at strengthening response operations against the outbreak.

    He also visited the Bunia District Hospital, where he commended health workers and Africa CDC personnel deployed to the area for their dedication and commitment in battling the outbreak.

    “Africa CDC remains fully committed to protecting communities and preventing further spread across the region,” Kaseya stated.

    In a related development, Kaseya travelled to Kampala, Uganda, where he met with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni to discuss the Ebola situation in the region and the need for a coordinated African response.

    According to Kaseya, discussions focused on strengthening collaboration among affected countries to ensure a unified strategy against the outbreak.

    He praised Uganda for its rapid and effective response measures, noting that following a cross-border meeting involving the Health Ministers of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan, African countries would adopt a common regional response plan.

    Kaseya expressed confidence that the continent would overcome the outbreak through collective action and strengthened regional cooperation.

  • Uganda denies Ebola presence, tightens border controls as regional fears grow in East Africa

    Uganda denies Ebola presence, tightens border controls as regional fears grow in East Africa

    KAMPALA, Uganda (NPA) — The Ministry of Health Uganda has announced that there are currently no active Ebola cases in the country following the recovery of a patient who had been receiving treatment.

    The announcement was made by Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, after a meeting of the National Task Force on Ebola Virus Disease convened by the Vice President of Uganda, Jessica Alupo.

    According to the ministry, the individual who had been under treatment tested negative for the virus and is now awaiting full recovery and discharge.

    Despite the development, Ugandan authorities announced a series of strict preventive measures aimed at stopping the spread of Ebola from neighbouring Democratic Republic of the Congo, where an outbreak continues to spread.

    Among the resolutions reached by the task force is the intensification of nationwide public awareness campaigns on infection prevention and control measures through radio, television, social media, religious institutions, cultural organisations, and local government structures.

    The government also directed enhanced screening, testing and treatment capacity along the Uganda-DRC border based on ongoing risk assessments.

    Authorities further announced the temporary suspension of cultural celebrations and commemorative events that attract large gatherings in border communities near the DRC.

    Uganda additionally suspended public passenger ferry services on the Semliki River, cross-border bus transport and other forms of public transportation between Uganda and the DRC for four weeks, although food and goods transportation will still be permitted.

    The government also ordered stronger border patrols along porous crossing points to reduce illegal movements between the two countries.

    Other measures include the suspension of weekly markets in high-risk border districts, stricter enforcement of health Standard Operating Procedures in schools, hotels, prisons, places of worship and non-weekly markets, as well as tighter monitoring of deaths in districts considered vulnerable to the outbreak.

    Authorities said schools across Uganda would reopen as scheduled, but must strictly observe health protocols issued by the Ministry of Health.

    The ministry urged the public to remain vigilant, comply with all health directives and promptly report suspected Ebola symptoms to the nearest health facility.

    The latest measures come amid growing concerns over the Ebola outbreak linked to the rare Bundibugyo strain currently spreading in eastern Congo and parts of Uganda. The strain presently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment.

    According to the World Health Organisation, the outbreak has so far resulted in hundreds of suspected cases and over 100 deaths in the DRC and Uganda, prompting the WHO to declare it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern earlier this week.

    WHO data showed that as of May 16, at least 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected deaths had been reported in Ituri Province in eastern Congo, while additional cases and fatalities have since been recorded as the outbreak spreads to more regions.

  • AU Chairperson calls for unity, stronger peace efforts at security retreat in Gabon

    AU Chairperson calls for unity, stronger peace efforts at security retreat in Gabon

    LIBREVILLE, Gabon — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has called for stronger unity, preventive diplomacy and sustainable peace efforts across Africa amid evolving security challenges on the continent.

    Speaking at the 17th High-Level Retreat on Peace and Security in Africa held in Gabon, Youssouf thanked the people and government of Gabon for hosting what he described as a timely dialogue on Africa’s changing security landscape.

    According to the AU Chairperson, the financial and human cost of resolving conflicts across the continent remains enormous, stressing that prevention, good governance and adherence to the rule of law are essential to achieving lasting peace.

    He warned that growing polarization in global politics and shortcomings in multilateral institutions require African nations to respond with unity, coordination and strategic clarity.

    “The cost of resolving conflicts is exorbitant; prevention, governance and the rule of law are indispensable,” Youssouf stated.

    The AU Chairperson emphasized that ceasefires, cessation of hostilities and peace agreements must go beyond temporary solutions and lead to sustainable peace across conflict-affected regions.

    He noted that every conflict situation on the continent possesses unique characteristics and requires tailored approaches, drawing lessons from countries including South Africa, Rwanda, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

    Youssouf also called for the timely implementation of decisions reached by the AU Peace and Security Council as well as the enforcement of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719 to ensure predictable and sustainable financing for peace support operations across Africa.

    According to him, the African Union’s “Silencing the Guns by 2030” initiative remains achievable if governments, institutions and citizens collectively take responsibility for peacebuilding efforts.

    “Silencing the Guns by 2030 is achievable if peace becomes a responsibility we all shoulder together,” he said.

    The retreat was officially opened by the Vice President of Gabon, Hermann Immongault, and attended by former African presidents, ministers, diplomats, special representatives and permanent representatives of the Chairperson of the AU Commission.

  • SADC Electoral Advisory Council begins pre‑election goodwill mission ahead of August polls

    SADC Electoral Advisory Council begins pre‑election goodwill mission ahead of August polls

    LUSAKA, Zambia (NPA) — The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC) has commenced a pre‑election goodwill assessment mission in the Republic of Zambia, engaging stakeholders ahead of the country’s General Election scheduled for 13 August 2026.

    The mission is led by Ambassador Joseph Nourrice, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Seychelles, and Dr Leonard Sesa, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Botswana. They are supported by officers from the SADC Secretariat.

    According to the Council, the team is holding consultations with a wide range of stakeholders, including Government, political parties, civil society, and individual experts on elections and democracy.

    The SEAC mission is being conducted in line with the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, which require the Council to undertake pre‑election assessments in member states preparing for national polls. These missions are designed to promote transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to democratic standards across the region.

    The Council emphasised that the goodwill mission is not only about observing preparations but also about encouraging dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders to ensure credible, peaceful, and democratic elections.

    By engaging Zambia’s political actors and institutions, SEAC aims to strengthen confidence in the electoral process and reaffirm SADC’s commitment to supporting member states in upholding democratic values.

  • Amnesty International stands with Kenyans as fuel protests turn violent

    Amnesty International stands with Kenyans as fuel protests turn violent

    NAIROBI, Kenya (NPA) — Amnesty International Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the escalating unrest in Kenya, where protests against rising energy costs have turned deadly, prompting a heavy crackdown by security forces. The rights group said it stands in solidarity with Kenyans and urged the National Police Service to respect, protect, and facilitate the right to peaceful assembly, association, and expression.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, Amnesty called for an independent and effective investigation into the killings that occurred during the demonstrations. The organisation noted that the protests were triggered by a sharp increase in fuel prices announced last week by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which raised costs by up to 23.5 per cent.

    The hike led to nationwide transport strikes organised by the Kenya Transport Sector Alliance, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. As tensions flared, violent clashes erupted in Nairobi, where police fired teargas and arrested dozens of protesters. At least four people were confirmed dead and several others injured.

    “We stand in solidarity with Kenyans and call on the National Police Service to respect, protect and facilitate the right to freedom of peaceful assembly, association, and expression. The killings at protests must be promptly, independently and effectively investigated,” Amnesty said.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that the Government of Kenya announced a KSh 10 per litre reduction in diesel prices as part of measures to cushion citizens from the rising cost of fuel linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis. The decision followed negotiations between government officials and public transport stakeholders aimed at easing tensions.

    Authorities also adjusted kerosene prices to narrow the gap with diesel and discourage adulteration by unscrupulous dealers. Despite the concessions, transport unions continued to demand deeper cuts. Following a meeting on Tuesday morning, both sides agreed to suspend the strike for one week to allow further dialogue.

    The Ministry of Interior and National Administration condemned the violence, looting, and destruction that accompanied Monday’s protests, describing the unrest as politically motivated and hijacked by rogue actors. It cited the looting of Khetia supermarkets, the burning of a UDA office in Wote, Makueni County, and the torching of trucks at the Rironi–Mau Summit project site as deliberate acts meant to spread fear and intimidate government supporters.

    The ministry also confirmed the death of Ms Rachel Wandeto, who was attacked during the protests, linking the incident to a broader scheme by political actors to incite intolerance and ethnic division. It vowed to intensify efforts against organised crime and ensure that lawlessness does not take root.

    Government officials said four people were killed and more than 30 were injured in the unrest, pledging that those responsible for the violence and destruction would face prosecution. The administration reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, warning that no one will be allowed to exploit public grievances for political gain.

    The unfolding crisis has drawn international attention, with rights groups urging restraint and accountability, as Kenya grapples with economic pressure and public anger.

  • Government debunks fake public holiday notice for Arsenal fans after a 22-year wait

    Government debunks fake public holiday notice for Arsenal fans after a 22-year wait

    GABORONE, Botswana (NPA) — The Government of Botswana has dismissed as fake a viral statement falsely claiming that the Office of the President had declared a public holiday to celebrate Arsenal Football Club’s Premier League triumph after a 22-year wait. The fabricated document, dated 17th May 2026, circulated widely on social media under the headline “Public Holiday for Arsenal Fans: Celebrating Arsenal’s Premier League Triumph.”

    In a firm rebuttal, the government clarified: “NO, THERE IS NO HOLIDAY FOR ARSENAL FANS.” Officials described the circulating letter as a deliberate act of misinformation and urged the public to disregard it.

    The fake release had attributed congratulatory remarks to President Duma Gideon Boko, allegedly praising Arsenal’s victory and encouraging citizens to take the day off to celebrate. It even called on public and private institutions to grant Arsenal supporters leave and host community events in honour of the club’s success.

    The counterfeit statement read in part: “His Excellency President Dumada Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana, has conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Arsenal Football Club and their supporters worldwide following the club’s outstanding achievement in winning the Premier League title for the 2025/26 season.” It went on to claim that the President had declared Wednesday, 17th May 2026, a national holiday for fans to “celebrate responsibly and with pride.”

    Across the forged document, a large red overlay marked “FAKE!”, confirming its inauthenticity.

    The Office of the President emphasised that no such directive was issued and that official government communications are only released through verified channels.

    Authorities have warned citizens against sharing unverified information online, noting that such fabrications can mislead the public and damage the credibility of official institutions. The government reiterated its commitment to transparency and urged media outlets and social media users to verify all statements before publication.